The New Russia

First published in Russian under the title ‘After the Kremlin’, Mikhail Gorbachev’s latest book provides an illuminating commentary on Russia’s internal developments during the quarter of a century since Gorbachev left office when the Soviet state ceased to exist. It also contains his reflections on Russia’s relations with the rest of the world. The book, which is handsomely produced and generously illustrated, comes with an encomium from former U.S. secretary of state George P. Shultz, who refers to Gorbachev’s “prodigious intellect, vast experience and powers of perception.” These qualities are on display in this valuable contribution to the debate about Russia and the new strains in East–West relations that have come to the fore in recent years. Although it is useful both for Gorbachev’s insights and for providing the reader with a better understanding of the man himself, the book is compiled in an unusual way. Interspersed with Gorbachev’s critiques of post-Soviet political developments are extracts from interviews he has given as well as texts of letters he has received, especially from ordinary Russians. The interviews are well worth including, for Gorbachev has always been able to think on his feet and, as the dates on which they were recorded are mentioned, they show how his evaluations of the post-Soviet polity have changed over time

Political science · Russia and Soviet political economy